WASHINGTON—The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) expresses serious concern over the recent decision by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to announce plans to remove all current members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), a longstanding body of medical and public health experts that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on immunization guidelines.

This move threatens to undermine decades of scientific progress, community trust, and evidence-based public health policymaking.

“ACIP plays a vital role in protecting public health, particularly for historically underserved communities, including Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander populations,” said Juliet K. Choi, President and CEO of APIAHF. “Removing this independent advisory body erodes trust in science and could dangerously politicize vaccine policy.”

The ACIP has been instrumental in providing transparent, peer-reviewed recommendations that have guided life-saving immunization strategies, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Disbanding its current membership could stall vaccination programs, exacerbate existing health disparities, and lead to increased preventable disease among vulnerable populations.

AANHPI communities already face significant barriers to health care access and suffer disproportionate impacts from infectious disease outbreaks. Decisions that dismiss scientific expertise and public health safeguards only further marginalize these groups.

APIAHF calls on all leaders to commit to preserving independent, evidence-based public health institutions. We urge policymakers and the public to remain vigilant in defending the integrity of bodies like ACIP and to prioritize the health and well-being of all communities.

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The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum influences policy, mobilizes communities, and strengthens programs and organizations to improve the health of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.